Offenders damaged two vehicles – a BMW and a Mazda MX5 – while a Toyota Hilux ute parked inside the business was loaded with more than $30,000 worth of power tools stolen from the business’ semi-trailer.

Electric and petrol rattle-guns, grinders and drills were among the items taken, along with specialised Ford Performance Vehicle parts like nuts, bolts and fasteners.

Owner Ted Robinson said the burglary had been devastating for his business.

“Think of a complete workshop in the back of a semi trailer ­- now think of an empty semi trailer,” he said.

Senior Constable Andrew Cummins from the Ballarat Criminal Investigation Unit said the Hilux was driven through the business’ rear fence and onto the rail tracks, heading towards Burnbank Street.

“It seems they certainly knew what they were looking for,” he said. “It’s quite calculated.”